Harmony Announces Acquisition of Iconic American Guitar Brand, Stella

Historically-rich and culturally-impactful, Stella guitars have been played by legendary musical artists including B.B. King, Kurt Cobain and Leon Bridges

KALAMAZOO, MICHIGAN; 14 FEBRUARY, 2023 – Harmony (harmony.co), the world’s most cherished maker of musical instruments, today announced the acquisition of Stella from Westheimer Corporation.

Founded in New Jersey, USA, in 1899 by the Oscar Schmidt Company, and later owned by the Harmony Company from 1939 to 1973, Stella was a prominent brand known for its great tone and unbeatable value guitars, and was played by a long list of legendary artists such as B.B. King, Elvis Presley, Willie Nelson, Kurt Cobain, Leon Bridges, and more.

With a shared and storied history that spans close to a century, Stella played an important role in making Harmony the world’s most cherished musical instrument company. CEO of Harmony, Meng Ru Kuok, says, “We are thrilled to bring the Harmony and Stella brands back together under the same roof, and are excited to honor the legacy of Stella in the years to come, just as we have done with Harmony.” 

Westheimer Corporation CEO, Laura Gabel, shared, “Stella is a name that has been steeped in musical history for over a century. We are delighted that it has been promised another chapter, and are confident in Harmony’s ability to steward the brand into the future.”

The acquisition includes Stella’s trademarks and intellectual property, and is effective immediately. More information will be shared about the future of the Stella brand in due course.

ABOUT HARMONY
Established in 1892, Harmony is warmly remembered by many musicians for starting their lifelong journey into music and for being a well-loved part of a musician’s story from one generation to the next.

Originally a maker of archtop and flat top guitars, ukuleles, banjos and violins, the brand officially entered a new era in 2018 when it was reintroduced to the world. Today, Harmony carries a refreshed lineup of electric guitars, including popular models like the Comet and Silhouette, amplifiers and accessories that are inspired by the past, designed for the present and crafted to last into the future.